Theory And Methods (1+3) Flashcards
Describe the Research Process
1) make observation
2) develop hypothesis
3) choose method
4) develop procedure
5) collect data
6) analyse data
7) draw conclusion
Define primary data
Present time data, researched by the individual
What are the benefits of primary data?
Accurate+reliable
What are the negatives of primary data?
Expensive and time consuming
Define secondary data
Data that already exists, and is completed by somebody else
What are the benefits of secondary data?
Cheaper, less time consuming
What are the negatives of secondary data?
Inaccurate, no control how data is produced
Define quantitative data
Numerical data
What are the advantages of quantitative data?
Useful for statistical analysis
Positivists prefer it as it is more objective and scientific
Reveals trends and correlations
What are the negatives of quantitative data?
Interpretivists - doesn’t give real picture of society
Define qualitative data
Non numerical, exists as text
Explores motivations and emotions
What are the benefits of qualitative data?
Interpretivists - more valid
What are the negatives of qualitative data?
Avoided by positivists- difficult to analyse systematically
Define target population
Everyone the researcher would like to generalise findings to
Define sample
Subset of target population being studied
Can be random or intentional
Define informed consent
Aims and procedures are fully explained to participant and they agree to be a part of the research
What are the practical issues that can affect choice of methods and sources?
Time
Money
Access
Researchers characteristics
How can time effect the choice of methods and sources?
More in-depth the method, longer it takes
Primary research takes longer than secondary sources
How can money effect the choice of methods and sources
More in-depth the method, more expensive
Primary data costs more than secondary data
Gov more likely to fund quantitative over qualitative
How can access effect choice of methods and sources
Some topics more difficult to access than others
How can researchers characteristics affect choice of sources and methods
Family and work may prevent long term research
Some topics better suited to specific types of researchers
What are the different types of sampling?
Opportunity Snowball Volunteer Random Stratified Systematic Quota
Define opportunity sampling
Researchers select participants based on availability (eg. asking pedestrians on the street)
What are the benefits of opportunity sampling?
Quick
Easy
Practical
